A Star Is Born
Warner Bros. | Release Date: October 5, 2018
8.4
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Universal acclaim based on 1659 Ratings
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8
amehannaNov 20, 2018
Making his directorial debut, Bradley Cooper not only delivers a worthy film, but also an ode to the death of true artistry.

Sure, A STAR IS BORN is nothing new under the Arizona sun, yet something in the way that it executes its narrativeMaking his directorial debut, Bradley Cooper not only delivers a worthy film, but also an ode to the death of true artistry.

Sure, A STAR IS BORN is nothing new under the Arizona sun, yet something in the way that it executes its narrative not only makes it fresh and authentic but more importantly relevant to a 2018 audience.

Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga fuse their considerable talents to depict the raw and passionate tale of Jack and Ally, two artistic souls coming together, on stage and in life. Theirs is a complex journey through the beauty and the heartbreak of a relationship struggling to survive.

As Jack’s stardom and fame start to fall apart due to his pills and fading relevance, Ally’s starts to grow, though not without slowly chipping away at her true self.

The screenplay, which is co-written by Cooper along with Eric Roth and Will Fetters, invites the audience on a journey that anyone who has been in a whirlwind relationship can empathize with. The consequences of lost lives crashing into each other, from fears, joys, doubts, anger, hopes, are all so intimately visualized within every line of dialogue, every bar of music, and every moment of silence.

Adding onto the layer of love, comes the ugliness of what it means to be both a seasoned star and a rising star in the entertainment business today and the amount of pressure, sacrifice, and pain that comes along with it.

This is extremely powerful and apropos to a 2018 audience, who is mostly interested in fame and the amount of followers and attention they get from social media.

A STAR IS BORN does not show the dream as it has been shown throughout the decades of Hollywood films, Cooper breaks that wheel, pulls the curtain, and surely puts his own personal experiences - he has been in the industry for years - onto the page and fearlessly projects them onto the screen.

From a nostalgic perspective, this film reminded of old Hollywood romantic films, that last decades by activating audiences’ emotions and imprinting themselves deep within the hearts of all who witness them.

Cooper’s embodiment of layered and haunted Jackson Maine is some of the best on screen performance in his entire career - this is Oscar-level delivery here and Cooper knows it.

When it comes to Lady Gaga’s characterization of Ally, there were moments where the character slipped away from her and you were looking at Gaga and not Ally - but those moments were few and do little harm to the overall power of the film.

Whenever the two shared screen-time, it was pure magic, as the chemistry between Cooper and Gaga oozes off the screen and it is sure to melt any cynic’s heart.

One cannot walk away without applauding the rest of the cast including veteran actor Sam Elliot who plays Jack’s older brother, whose seen him in and through, the best and worst of times, and Anthony Ramos, who plays Ally’s best friend and cheerleader Ramon.

Cooper and director of photography Matthew Libatique use this almost first-person perspective throughout the film giving the audience the ability to experience the intoxicating energy of performing live before a crowd. During all the concert scenes, no wide shots are ever used, instead the camera stays on stage with the performers looking out onto the massive crowds while capturing the interactions between the singers.

The lens lived inside the performance.

Yet, it was not just the lens that created this overwhelmingly powerful effect throughout the film - the sound design was also architected in a way that allowed for seamless transitions from backstage to centerstage.

To add to that, the musical performances were recorded live which meant that every crackle, cheer, and note was sharply heard.

At its core, the film is not only a story about love, it is a fight for love and staying true to oneself, and how difficult that can be when trying to balance it with one’s ambitions and the merciless entertainment industry.

There is no doubt that A STAR IS BORN will garner multiple Oscar nods including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress, and Best Song/Soundtrack. Until then, we are all sure to watch this film over and over again ensuring that we all off the deep end and our feet never touch the ground.

A STAR IS BORN stars Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga; directed by Bradley Cooper; produced by Bill Gerber, Jon Peters, Bradley Cooper, Todd Phillips and Lynette Howell Taylor; the screenplay was written by Oscar winner Eric Roth (“Forrest Gump”) and Bradley Cooper & Will Fetters.… Expand
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8
RaduAMar 16, 2019
82/100 I liked it very much.
 Bradley Cooper did a really good job, considering his first film.
 Lady Gaga looks better without makeup, my opinion.  The acting was good, I liked the song a lot (most, not all of them), the cinematography was82/100 I liked it very much.
 Bradley Cooper did a really good job, considering his first film.
 Lady Gaga looks better without makeup, my opinion.
 The acting was good, I liked the song a lot (most, not all of them), the cinematography was decent.
 The chemistry between Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga was great. The end seemed to me a exaggerated but it did not bother me so much.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
cameronhalmansJan 9, 2019
A Star is Born is an impressive directorial debut from Bradley Cooper. Powerful performances from the entire cast. The films cinematography and lighting were impeccable as well. A powerful piece of cinema that will probably be in most peoplesA Star is Born is an impressive directorial debut from Bradley Cooper. Powerful performances from the entire cast. The films cinematography and lighting were impeccable as well. A powerful piece of cinema that will probably be in most peoples top films of the year list. 77/100… Expand
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8
mtravis38Oct 8, 2018
Excellent movie. Terrific acting by Lady Gaga and an Oscar-worthy performance by Bradley Cooper. The opening act is phenomenal. It does drag at bit in the second act but the end makes it worth it. A real tear jerker.
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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8
TralkaOct 14, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The talent overflows, the direction of Bradley Cooper hit the spot to make no scene seem necessarily acted, produced an atmosphere of extremely realistic relationship, the interpretation flows like a river that never loses focus, due in large part to the chemistry between the protagonists and the acting quality of Cooper. Lady Gaga full of energy fulfilled the requirements to give life to one of the most iconic characters of the remake with a vocal performance of the highest level, achieved an emblematic participation since the soundtrack that she composed is in itself the biggest and best part of the movie. I regret that in the climax and last part of the film my emotion for the fatal outcome was not what I expected, due in large part to the extremely realistic character of the film, but mostly for the poor development of the relationship between the protagonists . A deep dive was not achieved. "Shallow" is a song that deserved more relationship time to dedicate and "Is that alright?" Could have been perfect before the arrival of Ally's manager at Jack's house.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
LegendaryLassDec 14, 2018
Cooper reveals his incredible competence as a performer and director (simultaneously, no less) and the music and acting will convince you. Gaga is unfortunately relegated to not much more than a foil for Cooper (and a rather passive one atCooper reveals his incredible competence as a performer and director (simultaneously, no less) and the music and acting will convince you. Gaga is unfortunately relegated to not much more than a foil for Cooper (and a rather passive one at that) instead of the force one would think she could have been.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
dennis_gtNov 26, 2018
There's a real chance that this is a pretty good "bad movie." Sure, it will win awards. But so did American Beauty. And nobody looks back on that as a great film. Don't get me wrong. This movie is entertaining. There are lots of thingsThere's a real chance that this is a pretty good "bad movie." Sure, it will win awards. But so did American Beauty. And nobody looks back on that as a great film. Don't get me wrong. This movie is entertaining. There are lots of things to like. But there's also some pretty annoying stuff and some questionable decisions. Like Cooper playing a "rock" star who rose to fame in the 2000s--when guitar rock is all but dead. Unless he sounded like the Strokes it makes no sense that he toured Europe for the first time in 2004 (as said in the movie). The manager who represents Gaga's character is basically a two dimensional villain. And some of the songs--especially the last one, which is supposed to be poignant--are awful. The whole thing has the feel of someone trying really, really hard to make an award winning movie. Not necessarily a good one.

But it's still fun. And often funny. It's definitely something that will be worth re-watching over and over when it lands on a streaming service. It'd put it alongside a movie like Titanic. Not great. But pretty fun. And it will will a bunch of awards. And people will kind of wonder why in two decades.… Expand
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8
user214563Nov 28, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This was a good movie. I particularly enjoyed the music. Should win an Oscar… Expand
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8
ARGzelderMar 16, 2019
La primer experiencia de Bradley Cooper como director nos da una película memorable y encantadora, la química que tiene él como protagonista y Lady Gaga trasciende y nos vende esta historia de amor que se crea en el contexto de los escenariosLa primer experiencia de Bradley Cooper como director nos da una película memorable y encantadora, la química que tiene él como protagonista y Lady Gaga trasciende y nos vende esta historia de amor que se crea en el contexto de los escenarios y giras musicales.
La historia nos introduce a Jack, un músico que esta lidiando con problemas de alcohol y una inevitable perdida de la audición, tras un recital decide hacer una parada por una bebida y se encuentra con Ally, una chica frustrada en el ambiente musical que logra cautivarlo por su voz y su creatividad.
La película es una historia de amor a pesar de la adversidad, de como una persona puede llevar a su pareja hacia nuevos caminos por el sólo hecho de que uno cree en el otro, y viceversa. Sin lugar a dudas uno de los puntos más fuertes es la actuación de Lady Gaga como Ally, en su primer participación como actriz principal da todo de ella y nos da una credibilidad en cuanto al amor de su personaje por su pareja. La música es muy interesante desde letras profundas a ritmos que enganchan la banda sonora cumple un gran rol.
Una gran historia de amor, recomendable para quienes gustan de éste género o quieren probarlo, la película se hace sentir corta porque entretiene en todo momento.… Expand
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8
Joelee2637Dec 2, 2018
The film conveyed a powerful message; in which is a great compliment. The singing by Lady Gaga was amazing.., so amazing it is impressive. Although Bradley Cooper, did decent it did not compare to Lady Gaga.
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8
MackansfilmDec 16, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A STAR IS BORN //Full review on WWW.mackansfilm.org


A WORTHY DEBUT


Bradley Cooper has grown himself mature, as an actor from movies like Hangover, Limitless and the movies from MCU to making his directorial debut that throws him and Lady Gaga right in the spotlight where they both belong. With the same story about hat has been put on display before, this enrich a classic tale in a different light, enrich make it one of today best and most entertaining piece in the music genre. Somehow Cooper makes all the chaos and despair grasp these two character in the most relevant way.

Lady Gaga show a more immature performance until she outgrow to become the female pop icon. As she sings on the stages, you can see patterns of the artist behind it. You’ll love the power of her sings but not all in  her performance. It is a little bit unsteady as she really tries her best to make her character likeable. Sometime it does work, sometimes it really doesn't. The thing is, with this movie, is that you know who is the good and briljant actor, and who is not that famous for being a good actor. Bradley Cooper show a different side of himself in this movie and as a director. It also levels up good as his and Lady Gaga's chemistry is quite nice where you can almost feel them sparkle at the screen...… Expand
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8
IsaacJApr 6, 2019
Here, in his directorial debut, Bradley Cooper presents a third retelling of a timeless romance. It is said that each generation has their own version of A Star is Born; whether it’s the 1937 original, Judy Garland’s 1954 retelling or BarbraHere, in his directorial debut, Bradley Cooper presents a third retelling of a timeless romance. It is said that each generation has their own version of A Star is Born; whether it’s the 1937 original, Judy Garland’s 1954 retelling or Barbra Streisand in 1976. This modern adaptation draws on that same arc of one star ascending whilst another falls, but it also feels very different; Cooper’s film is a raw, affecting love story, perfect for the audiences of today.
Cooper himself stars as Jackson Maine, grizzled and drug-addled country rocker, cruising through fame down the side street of self-destruction. The film opens in the midst of an immersive rock concert… before which we see Jack swig from a bottle and pop pills on the side of the stage. Soon enough, we meet the other half of our captivating double act, as Jack stops off at a drag bar only to find Lady Gaga’s Ally performing a belting version of La Vie En Rose. He’s instantly smitten both with her and her undeniable talent. What follows is a love story of highs and lows, as Ally’s success blooms and Cooper’s Jack spirals steadily into a pit of addiction. This film not only explores the personal struggles of a relationship, but the paralysing and enticing nature of fame.
Bradley Cooper is transformative in his performance as Jackson; his gravelly tones and haggard gait make for a portrayal that is unrecognisably convincing. What is even more revolutionary, however, is Cooper’s direction, an attentive approach to a story that deals with tough themes. Lady Gaga is a powerful force as Ally; we already know this megastar’s ability to dominate a stage and deliver a vocal performance, but what is even more impressive is what we see of Ally when she is still a waitress too afraid to sing the songs she writes. Gaga’s performance is a compelling one and the director in Cooper is brilliant at playing to her strengths; we learn to love Ally as she grows into herself, with the help of (but not dependency on) Jack. Ultimately, what makes A Star is Born a story worth retelling is its central romance; this film always rested entirely on that being believable. Gaga and Cooper’s chemistry is simply wonderful; theirs is a real relationship, full of laughter, love and resentment. There’s something so ineffable just in the way the characters look at eachother that makes their love so potent and only heightens the emotional effect of the tragedy that follows.
Whilst Jack and Ally’s relationship is the obvious focus, other characters stand in the background with Sam Elliott giving a beautifully understated performance as Jack’s half-brother Bobby. The relationship between Jack and Bobby is superbly done; the screenwriters know never to allow it to take too much light but it still reaches an emotional payoff in one of the best scenes. In contrast, a manipulative triangle that forms between Jack, Ally and Rafi Gavron’s hissable manager is one of the weaker aspects of the film, a little too cliched and rather stunted.
There are also a few structural problems; throughout the second act, events in the story (from hastened wedding to SNL skits) stream too quickly by, yet the pace of Cooper’s edit seems to drag. These are quickly resolved by the third act, however, where we are brought back to the lyrical pace of the first hour that works so well. The soundtrack leaves one slightly underwhelmed; whilst the film’s booming anthem, ‘Shallow’ will stick with you for days, many of the songs lack much memorability with only a few really aiding the storytelling. You almost forget about the songs however in the many concert scenes; Matthew Libatique’s cinematography is judicious, an engrossing shoot, from the bright neons of Ally’s tour right through to Jackson’s rock concerts which we see in the same drunken haze of their star. Outside of these moments too, the film is shot with a tenderness that also manages to feel totally involving.
Early on in the film, Jackson wisely states the importance of having “something to say and a way to say it”. This couldn’t ring truer of A Star is Born; despite being a third remake, it’s a retelling that feels like it was meant to be told. Two alluring lead performances and Cooper’s deft direction make this film far from ‘Shallow’, but rather a deeply moving and dramatic love story that hits all the right notes… Expand
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8
ThrenodistJan 24, 2019
The story is relatively simple. The soundtrack and acting performance put this firm into the Great category.
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8
zrhumphreyJan 15, 2019
Fantastic performances, solid first time direction by Cooper, and the songs are catchy as hell. Didn't hit me as hard as I wanted it to.
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8
Wavy_YeezyMay 25, 2019
This is a good movie, but I do think it stretches out too much. It's also very cliche and not as emotional as I've heard of.
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8
joel_tdlNov 21, 2019
Buenas actuaciones, canciones magistralmente buenas y una fotografía de 10, Nace Una Estrella es un referente de cómo debe ser un drama musical.
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8
Onlyclassicvg1Oct 4, 2022
This film does not disappoint!! So many good things to say about this film...the script, the performances, the music and Bradley Cooper's self-assured, direction. With her performance, Lady Gaga establishes herself as a First-Rate Actress. AThis film does not disappoint!! So many good things to say about this film...the script, the performances, the music and Bradley Cooper's self-assured, direction. With her performance, Lady Gaga establishes herself as a First-Rate Actress. A star is born, indeed! Well done!!… Expand
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8
JaimurrisSep 11, 2020
Muy buena música y buenas interpretaciones. Lady Gaga increíble y Bradley Cooper genial también como Jack. Está muy bien porque se ve como van evolucionando los distintos personajes y como van cambiando las tornas. Una historia muy redonda.Muy buena música y buenas interpretaciones. Lady Gaga increíble y Bradley Cooper genial también como Jack. Está muy bien porque se ve como van evolucionando los distintos personajes y como van cambiando las tornas. Una historia muy redonda. Algunas partes quizás un poco mas densas pero sin duda una pelicula que pone los pelos de punta.… Expand
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7
BHBarryOct 31, 2018
"A Star is Born" stars Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, Sam Elliott and Andrew Dice Clay in a film directed by Mr. Cooper and co-written by him, Eric Roth and Will Fetters. Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga give superb performances with special kudos to"A Star is Born" stars Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga, Sam Elliott and Andrew Dice Clay in a film directed by Mr. Cooper and co-written by him, Eric Roth and Will Fetters. Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga give superb performances with special kudos to Ms. Gaga who was a pleasant surprise both as to her acting and vocal talent.
Unfortunately, for this viewer at least, I was, throughout the film, extremely conscious of the Janet Gaynor/Frederick March, James Mason/Judy Garland and Kris Kristofferson/Barbara Streisand versions of the film and because of that, they got in the way of my ability to just sit back and watch the scenes in the latest remake unfold. Although set in the genre of contemporary rock music, the film differs little from its predecessors with the viewer knowing exactly how each predictable circumstance would play out and curious only as to how the newest version might modify the old. There should be a statute of limitations on how many times you can remake a film and this latest one is a good argument for it. I give the film a 7.0 and suggest that it be seen by only two types of audiences, one looking to see Lady Gaga in a totally new dimension and the other for that rare individual who never saw any of other three films.… Expand
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7
jeremypOct 12, 2018
It's worth it for the music and to see, and hear, Lady Ga Ga sans costume. The in between is so so, and some of the story seems to just appear without much explanation. The music which is rich and gets richer suddenly goes shallow until theIt's worth it for the music and to see, and hear, Lady Ga Ga sans costume. The in between is so so, and some of the story seems to just appear without much explanation. The music which is rich and gets richer suddenly goes shallow until the final tour de force which they ruin by cutting away from it. For those of us raised on James and Judy, and bored by Barbra and Kris, this is more for the younger set.… Expand
5 of 8 users found this helpful53
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7
JoeCoolMar 11, 2019
Good enough to go see, even if you're not really into music movies. I had some doubts about whether Lady Gaga would be any good as an actress but she really came through. The Oscar for Shallow is obviously well deserved if anyone had anyGood enough to go see, even if you're not really into music movies. I had some doubts about whether Lady Gaga would be any good as an actress but she really came through. The Oscar for Shallow is obviously well deserved if anyone had any doubts.
The second half of the movie A star is born (as another star fades) isn't exactly a feel good movie, but the music kinda helps you through it, but not really, as the predictable story unfolds. Nice to see Gaga without all the extravagance, just as a solid singer. If you really don't like Lady Gaga then this movie won't be for you though.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
ProteusOct 9, 2018
Ever seen a chronic alcoholic with 6 pack abs? Watch this movie. Bradley Cooper plays to most buff gorgeous alcoholic in history. This makes me want to gobble pills and pound Vodka. Forget the gym. Wow.

Good movie.
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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7
Brent_MarchantOct 6, 2018
An inoffensive but formula-driven retelling of this now-familiar tale (in its fourth screen iteration) that gets some things right and misses the mark on others. Musically brilliant, with an excellent acting debut by Lady Gaga and a fine castAn inoffensive but formula-driven retelling of this now-familiar tale (in its fourth screen iteration) that gets some things right and misses the mark on others. Musically brilliant, with an excellent acting debut by Lady Gaga and a fine cast of supporting characters, the film provides a great showcase for its headliner. However, the picture is at its weakest in the writing, which incorporates a refreshingly surprising amount of humor but regrettably suffers from some prolonged bloat and character development that inexplicably and frequently bounces back and forth between polar opposites. This is certainly a fine springboard for the film's leading lady, but it's a story that needs to be given a prolonged rest before anyone considers remaking it yet again.… Expand
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7
MattBrady99Feb 25, 2019
"Maybe it's time to let the old ways die."

'A Star Is Born' is a depressing look on love, drugs and rock n roll, but will occasionally stumble into some cliche moments with the main message shooting itself in the foot. I mean, the whole "if"Maybe it's time to let the old ways die."

'A Star Is Born' is a depressing look on love, drugs and rock n roll, but will occasionally stumble into some cliche moments with the main message shooting itself in the foot. I mean, the whole "if you’re talented, but don’t have anything to say", which is just this movie. Nothing new is said at all. However, as soon as the credits rolled, I was left speechless. A mishmash of emotions that left me drained.

Bradley Cooper is absolutely excellent as the talented, yet deeply troubled Jack. Every time Cooper is on screen, I really bought him as the alcoholic rock star. The way he carries himself throughout with his mumble speech was totally believable. I don't know what’s more impressive: This is Cooper’s directorial debut or his singing voice...maybe both.

Lady Gaga is also really great and finally shows off her acting chops, something that her previous roles failed to do. While some of her line delivery was a bit unnatural, but I thought she’s terrific during the dramatic aspects. And of course her singing voice is dynamic.

Sam Elliott, on the other hand, absolutely broke me and his screen time is very slim. Without spoiling anything, there’s a scene involving him reversing his car and we get a close up shot on Elliott’s face, with no dialogue and music, just his reaction. It’s some of the best acting.

The sound design is incredibly detailed, especially during the concert scenes. The songs itself are really good and you can understand why within this story it made them stars. Although the editing is a bit clunky at times and the directing isn't anything too special. The movie can get a little bit predictable, because it almost follows the Oscar bait formula, but didn’t distract my emotional investment .

Overall rating: Out of all the movies nominated this year at the Oscars that I thought are either bland or straight up bad - this is probably my third favorite with the others being 'The Favorite' and 'Roma'.

*me to Bradley Cooper* "I just wanted to take another look at you."… Expand
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7
RalfbergsMar 23, 2023
If you like movies that focus more on music than story then maybe you will like it more than me, actually for me this is more 6,5 - the story itself goes by quite fast and if we would strip away the great singing and songs, the movie would beIf you like movies that focus more on music than story then maybe you will like it more than me, actually for me this is more 6,5 - the story itself goes by quite fast and if we would strip away the great singing and songs, the movie would be quite short and predictable mostly. Still, good movie.… Expand
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7
IzagoOct 14, 2018
É um filme bom, com ótimos momentos e com alguns momentos um pouco abaixo, o filme se mantem bom do inicio ao fim, mas ele fecha bem.
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7
TrevorsViewOct 12, 2018
We all must use our best traits of excellence, as passion plus skill equals impact beyond the grave, sustaining the salt of the earth and the light of the world. True to the expectation of our existence, Bradley Cooper’s directorial debutWe all must use our best traits of excellence, as passion plus skill equals impact beyond the grave, sustaining the salt of the earth and the light of the world. True to the expectation of our existence, Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut brings everything he excels at in updating the tragically romantic classic A Star is Born for the 21st century.

Before seeing this movie, the horrible, mega cheesy trailer got me worried, I thought despite all the early Oscar attention, this might match The Greatest Showman’s quality, thankfully I was wrong. In fact, beyond just making a dang enjoyable film, the three-time Academy Award nominee exploits his clear skill in acting, singing, and directing. Bradley enhances his reputation beyond just the sincere tear drips he controls, but also shows a grand soul at a small-scale production size that proves bigger is not always better, unless that bigger thing is the heart.

This character of his that represents all of Arizona shares marvelous chemistry alongside Lady Gaga enough to deeply move her performance in a way that will inspire any women watching. The famous pop singer first croons down a dark alley to communicate pain whilst the memorable title card comes up, then tops it off with a heavy-hitting finale she put her entire self into. It’s honestly such a joy to see the similar journey these two love-birds go through, even proving how a conversation about some random bag of frozen peas goes a long way.

Almost the rest of the whole cast puts their best foot forward, including the briefly present comedian Dave Chappelle, whose realistic speech further justifies our care about the main couple. That doesn’t include everyone though, as Rafi Gavron proves unoriginality on the screen he ought to avoid from here on out. This “actor” plays a British guy who serves an antagonistic force with an accent that suggests slight racism. Along with its misrepresentation of those from the UK, there is also a missed opportunity for Mexican representation, considering its Southern US setting, to make this reflect more close-to-home our culture nowadays; look at No Country for Old Men to see Mexicans portrayed in a much timelier fashion.

Although Americans are represented terrifically, as their culture is shown through all the small moments. Much like the mass obsession of appearance, Lady Gaga’s big nose is emphasized, which her character thinks roadblocks her road to fame. Then once her pain is justified, Gaga’s singing no longer sounds 100% pitch perfect, as her voice often cracks as she belts in front of the crowd. Normally, this would prove unprofessionalism, but in this case, our given perspective enables insight on her vulnerability as a growing celebrity. Then away from the spotlight, cute memories are lingered on between the two: peeling off artificial eyebrows, smearing pie on face, moments that naturally trigger laughter with sincerity surpassed beyond any West Side Story duet.

Yet not every moment helps refine the final product, for editor Jay Cassidy (Into the Wild, Silver Linings Playbook) rushes things carelessly to lay out little time passage around some life milestones that come off as ineffective. One unimportant component lingered on includes the usage of old people for the comic relief of misunderstanding technology, which really should have been cut entirely to help the obtrusive scene-to-scene transitions not feel cut too short.

Essentially, it just means this movie has a mind on featuring the world of fame with insurmountable depth. Instead of brash outfits, the costume designer Erin Benach (Drive, The Neon Demon) clearly understands how color complements human form. For instance, Lady Gaga at one point dyes her hair bright ginger, a rags-to-riches transition Benach accommodates to without being over-the-top lavish. Especially when inside the bathroom, the wardrobe remains quiet enough to even make Gaga’s stark work uniform resemble a limiting straitjacket before meeting her beau. The costumes never call attention to themselves, as the noise depicted by the massive shaky-cam is relied upon instead to bulge out the true emotions. In any other project, this technique would come off as amateurish, but here, it helps authenticate every performance, especially when the energetic stage lights illuminate the steam to represent self-expression, achieving whatever 1980s feature-length music videos (Dirty Dancing for instance) attempted.

Yes, A Star is Born is seriously worth glowing on about, even though everything beforehand worked against me having a good time; my ticket was paid out of pocket since MoviePass went flat-out faulty on a night the theater was so packed I had to sit third row from the screen. Yet miraculously, this piece of entertainment, like the passion in superb gifts, left an ultimate impact that knows how to salt the earth and enlighten the world with others who hope to do great.… Expand
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7
KeithDowOct 8, 2018
The trailer for 'A Star is Born' makes it feel like the film is going to be the duet version of 'Crazy Heart,' which would be an improvement in my opinion, though it also wouldn't be as popular if it were. Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga are soThe trailer for 'A Star is Born' makes it feel like the film is going to be the duet version of 'Crazy Heart,' which would be an improvement in my opinion, though it also wouldn't be as popular if it were. Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga are so tremendously talented that their pairing makes for a powerful procession of musical performances. It's just unfortunate that handful of the plot points in between those performances often tease the boundaries of credulity.

Still, as the writer, director, and star, Cooper has duly earned every bit of success that the film is garnering, placing an even brighter spotlight on an already radiant star.… Expand
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7
AMFcriticJan 10, 2019
A musical that tells the tragedy in an almost masterly way. Touching deep issues such as the vice that comes from depression, and suffering as a result of the disease. 79.4 / 100 (7)
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7
Bertaut1Oct 19, 2018
A strong directorial debut

The fourth version of the template (the fifth if you count What Price Hollywood? from 1932), this particular remake is written by Bradley Cooper, Eric Roth, and Will Fetters, and directed by Cooper, who sticksA strong directorial debut

The fourth version of the template (the fifth if you count What Price Hollywood? from 1932), this particular remake is written by Bradley Cooper, Eric Roth, and Will Fetters, and directed by Cooper, who sticks pretty close to the beats of the previous versions. Jackson Maine (Cooper) is a fading drug-addicted and alcoholic country and western singer suffering from tinnitus, who is just about being held together by his tour manager and elder brother, Bobby (an exceptional Sam Elliott). When Maine encounters Ally Campana (Lady Gaga), he's impressed by her singing abilities, and at his next show, he brings her on stage to sing one of her own songs. Joining him on tour, they soon they begin a romance, but as Ally's popularity grows, Maine begins to voice disapproval.

So, to begin with some aspects which I disliked. The first half is markedly superior to the second, which comes down to pacing issues and editing rhythm. Whereas the first half really takes its time in setting up the characters and their relationship, the second half often feels rushed, offering a highlight reel of events spread out over many months, without really giving any of them time to breathe. Another issue, and one which I recognise I'm in the minority regarding, is that I found Gaga's performance a mixed bag. Essentially doing a Barbra Streisand impression, she doesn't really go any way towards showing us why this young woman would want to be with an alcoholic twice her age (apart from the fact that he's good for her career). Gaga never lets us see her fall in love with him, despite the framework being right there in the script.

I also had some problems with the gender politics. As is the case with all previous versions of the story, although the woman is ostensibly the lead, the man's troubles are the focus of the narrative, with the template inviting the audience to pity the man more than admire the woman. Indeed, Ally is controlled and manipulated by men from start to finish, and the entire story is predicated on the fact that she needs a man's help to make her breakthrough. In this sense, it might have been interesting to reverse the genders. It would probably be automatically criticised by the type of men who downvote anything gender progressive, but it would have been an interesting modern spin on an old story.

To counter that suggestion, however, and move onto what I liked about the film, it could be argued that by effectively maintaining the themes of the previous iterations of the story, the film is simply embracing its histrionic Classical Hollywood genesis, unapologetically retelling a traditional story in much the same manner as it was originally conceived.

Copper's direction is also pretty impressive, giving the rock world milieu a sense of lived-in verisimilitude, in what is probably the most vibrantly realistic portrayal of the music industry since Almost Famous (2000). For the most part, Cooper as director is invisible, which makes sense, given the nature of the story (the ominous nooses seen hanging above Maine on a billboard are a little over the top, however). For the most part, he strikes a fine balance between over-the-top showbiz fantasy, populated by larger-than-life characters and cartoonish histrionics, and a more grounded romance about the sacrifices one may have to make for the person one loves. To cite just one example of this dichotomy, the scenes which introduce the two leads are as far as you can imagine from razzmatazz - Maine is shown alone in a green room popping pills before staggering onto stage, and Ally is shown in a toilet cubicle breaking up with her boyfriend over the phone.

All things considered, A Star is Born is an impressive directorial debut, and is probably the best of the four versions of the story (it's certainly better than the 1937 and 1976 versions). Signalling the arrival of an interesting new directorial voice, I didn't think it was as good as a lot of people, finding it a little too disposable at times, but I certainly enjoyed it, and I'm looking forward to whatever Cooper does next.… Expand
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7
clarkaddisonOct 27, 2018
I will always defend Lady Gaga in this film. Her performance is jaw dropping at times. Other than what is a dark and depressing ending that some viewers find offensive it was a good film. Not a fun one, for the most part. This is a seriousI will always defend Lady Gaga in this film. Her performance is jaw dropping at times. Other than what is a dark and depressing ending that some viewers find offensive it was a good film. Not a fun one, for the most part. This is a serious dive into what stardom does to an individual.… Expand
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7
bataguilaOct 30, 2018
tarda 1hr en empezar, para mujeres la 1ra mitad, la 2da mitad el drama. Sin los temas inútiles (pleito entre hermanos, la sordera, las amigas travestis, los amigos del papá) la película sería ágil. Mi conclusión: GAGA destrozó a BRADLEY y latarda 1hr en empezar, para mujeres la 1ra mitad, la 2da mitad el drama. Sin los temas inútiles (pleito entre hermanos, la sordera, las amigas travestis, los amigos del papá) la película sería ágil. Mi conclusión: GAGA destrozó a BRADLEY y la vida exitosa que tenía antes de ella.… Expand
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7
SaraClementsOct 15, 2018
A Star Is Born delivers a narrative that I really did not expect going in. It's A LOT. I had seen the trailer at least 5 times in theatres and every time I said to myself, "That's going to be so FUN." And to an extent, it is. The music isA Star Is Born delivers a narrative that I really did not expect going in. It's A LOT. I had seen the trailer at least 5 times in theatres and every time I said to myself, "That's going to be so FUN." And to an extent, it is. The music is lyrically some of the best I've heard this year, and witnessing Ally's rise to fame and struggle with her identity were the best aspects of the plot for me. Don't get me wrong, Bradley Cooper's character, Jackson, is fun to watch on stage and Cooper has a great voice, but his character ruined my enjoyment a bit. I didn't like him at all. Mostly in the first half of the film where everything he does is so cringey, to the point where a romance, that's supposed to be cute, is laughable. Ally and Jackson's interactions made the audience laugh an uncomfortable amount of times, and I don't know if this was the intention of Cooper and the writers, but like I said, it took away some of the enjoyment I expected to have. There were genuinely funny moments in the middle of all that, though, thanks mostly to the drag queens.

However, having said that, the film does feel like it was shot through a documentary style lense. A combination of Gaga: Five Foot Two and those typical "on the road" documentaries bands make while on tour, so maybe male artists just be like that and Jackson's actions were authentic of someone in that business. It's not free of plot holes either. The most evident that comes to mind is Dave Chappelle's character who's thrown in with no explanation of who he is or how he knows Jackson. The film would have benefited from a shorter runtime, so cutting out Chappelle altogether would have been a good idea, in my opinion, since we never see him again after his few scenes.

The film takes a depressing turn real fast, becoming a film I didn't expect. It's so heavy. One of those films that, at least for me, couldn't be binge watched 10 times a week (and I'm a Gaga stan!).

Speaking of L. Gaga, she really does The Most. I would go as far as saying that she outacted everyone, including Cooper. To throw in an example, there's a scene where he has a breakdown and he's supposed to be crying but there are no tears and Gaga's just sitting there with a single tear streaming down her cheek. Ugh! Academy Award! With the Academy's past of nominating stars who sing and act in their film, I won't be surprised if Gaga receives a nomination. And her final shot? PHEW.… Expand
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7
GCOReviewsOct 29, 2018
This film is pretty good, I got to be honest. Bradley Cooper has acted amazing in this film. In most of his films I can still see that its Cooper behind the screen but with this film I couldn't tell. Lady Gaga gives an amazing performance whoThis film is pretty good, I got to be honest. Bradley Cooper has acted amazing in this film. In most of his films I can still see that its Cooper behind the screen but with this film I couldn't tell. Lady Gaga gives an amazing performance who knew how great she would be in acting. While watching this movie, I was questioning myself if she was really Lady Gaga. Cooper and Gaga do make a fine duo in this marvelous film.… Expand
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7
LessIsMoreNov 7, 2018
Pretty overrated but Im still very impressed with Bradley Coopers direction and it has undeniable heart.
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7
ImpeccibleTasteNov 17, 2018
Lady Gaga stole the show, like Kris Kristofferson did in the last iteration. Thoroughly entertaining, but shallow.
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7
FeudDec 5, 2018
The acting was amazing from the whole cast but I especially loved Bradley Cooper and Sam Elliot. The songs were pretty good and so was the cinematography. I enjoyed the first half of this movie way more than the second. It really started toThe acting was amazing from the whole cast but I especially loved Bradley Cooper and Sam Elliot. The songs were pretty good and so was the cinematography. I enjoyed the first half of this movie way more than the second. It really started to drag and felt like a 3 hour movie to me.… Expand
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7
rwbronsonJan 17, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Finding your voice...and losing it

A Star is Born(70/100)

(Possible spoilers(but not if you've seen any of the previous 3 versions)

Acting/Script Score(15/20) Cooper's finest moment is his final embrace with Gaga, just as March's goodbye to Gaynor was in the '37 version. But once you've seen an actor pull off that scene do we really need to see it again? And I was tragically unmoved at the end. It seems that 2 minutes of critique from Ally's manager is all it takes to push Jackson over the edge. The characters who inspire and captivate us are those who find sacrificial strength in love(Joy Newsome in "Room", Georges Laurent in "Amour", Frankie Dunn in "Million Dollar Baby.) Jackson seems content with his one attempt to conquer his demons.
Gaga's finest moment was definitely her first performance at Jackson's concert but that seems to be more a product of the cinematography than anything else.

Take Your Shot/Find Your Voice Score(40/40) The first concert scene with both Jackson and Ally is definitely the highlight of the film. Well paced(Ally waits just long enough before stepping to the mic), well photographed(Cooper's penchant for close-ups is best used here) and great musical chemistry between Jackson and Ally.

You've got something to say Score(0/20) This is where the movie totally lost me. Both her husband and her manager tell Ally that she now has a platform to say things the world needs to hear. She's found her voice so what will she say? Well, she says, "Why did you do that, do that. do that, do that, do that to me?" Yeah, I'm out.

Comparison Score(5/10) The vocal performances and lyrics were superior in the '76 version. Gaga's finale was superior to Streisand's failed attempt at rock though.

Kelly Score(10/10) I saw the film with my daughter Kelly and she felt that the story dealt with the question of Ally's failure to use her platform to say something important. And she found Jackson more sympathetic that I did. Perhaps this is because of the work she's done with the marginalized in St. Louis. I reconsidered my view and ultimately stuck with my original opinion but this helps me realize it's just my opinion and many may disagree(certainly most critics who've reviewed the film do.)

70/100

[ Rabid, Ranting Kansas Fan Font on] One reason the "Say Something" issue bothered me so much is that my favorite group, Kansas, faced the same pressure as they started in the music business. Their albums featured songs running up to 11 minutes in length that were about such topics as the colonization of America, visions of lost spouses, and themes from Herman Hesse novels. Their record company pressured them to write short love songs but they stuck to their guns. Their breakout hit "Carry on Wayward Son" was nearly 5 minutes long and still dealt with profound themes. Ally chickened out. [Rabid, Ranting Kansas Fan Font off]… Expand
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7
DjakeirFeb 18, 2019
A star is born seems to be a humble film about the rise of a star and the simultaneous fall of another. This humility I think has been lost in the recent award season but whether or not this film deserves oscars or not, proably the former inA star is born seems to be a humble film about the rise of a star and the simultaneous fall of another. This humility I think has been lost in the recent award season but whether or not this film deserves oscars or not, proably the former in my opinion, the film still has positives and negatives. Lady Gaga is a tremendous talent and excels as her role which she clealry has some emotional connection to. She delivers dialogue and emotions earnestly and is able to convey emotions proportional to on screen events. Lady Gaga only offers to lift this movie up with her unavoidable star presence.
Bradley Cooper is a very likeable actor, he has had an accomplished career as an actor so far and his performances aren't always versatile but are consistently good. Here Bradley portarys a complex character with previous and existing issues. His acting of his characters' addiciton was more believable and effective in some scenes more so than others. He was at times overshadowed by his famous co-star but I do believe Bradley Cooper held his own and played a role that no one could easily have taken. His job as a director was solid, the directing didn't hinder the movie but its hard to think of any times where it excelled, which isn't too bad a criticism for a directorial debut, but I have seen better debuts by actors (Paul Dano's Wildlife).

The soudtrack was really good, again an area where Lady Gaga came through. Bradley Cooper has to be commended for his contributions to this soundtrack however it is obvious his acting is where his comforts lie. The storyline was ok but it was obvious how this movie was going to progress. This movie tries to tackle difficult themes and for the most part it managed to do so effectively. However, I do think that certain issues, especially the one related to the conclusion of this movie was a bit awkward. The movie seems to be clunky in the sense that half way into the movie they realise they need to start preparing for how its going to end. This results in a drastic change in mood that whilst creates a feeling of dread in the audiene it also feels like an uncomfortable attempt to depress them also. This may have been the goal of the film but then again you could have shown a short film of histroical tragedies which would require little effort on behalf of the film maker to elicit the same feeling. A more creative way to show the downfall of a perons life would have been more relatable and would have created a deeper feeling of sorrow in the audience rather than just a depressing afternoon.… Expand
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7
AlinzparkJun 17, 2019
“A Star is Born”, co-written, directed, and starring Bradley Cooper (Guardians of the Galaxy, American Sniper), is Hollywood’s fourth telling of a classic tale of success and self-destruction; though this time, the story has been given a“A Star is Born”, co-written, directed, and starring Bradley Cooper (Guardians of the Galaxy, American Sniper), is Hollywood’s fourth telling of a classic tale of success and self-destruction; though this time, the story has been given a refreshingly gritty 21st-century makeover and is helped along by career-best performances by its all-star cast, stunning camerawork, and a powerfully tragic script sure to please audiences in the mood for some musical melodrama.
The film follows Jackson Maine (Cooper); an aging, alcoholic rock star who discovers Ally (Played by Lady Gaga), a bar waitress with an extraordinary amount of untapped musical talent; whom he quickly falls in love with. Maine then decides to help launch Ally into stardom, all while his own career falters and crumbles due to his crippling addiction to pills and alcohol.
While the film proves that Bradley Cooper is a fairly skilled director overall, the cinematographer, Matthew Libatique (Black Swan), is the unofficial second star of the film. The skillful camera work and lighting make every concert played by the stars an eye-popping spectacle bejeweled with blinding lights and swirling camera movements. Overall, while the whole cast gives excellent performances with not a weak one in sight, the beating heart of the film undoubtedly belongs to Lady Gaga and her up and coming starlet. Every moment she is on screen, Gaga shows her character’s natural quirkiness and insecurities with surprising skill, though her acting isn’t as Oscar-worthy as many would think. Someone who did give an Oscar-worthy performance is Sam Elliot as Jackson’s older brother, who gives the best performance in the movie with a single, car-related scene.
This brings us to the script which, while largely charmingly written and armed with an entourage of emotional gut-punches, does suffer from a pretty drastic pacing issue; with much of the third act dragging in a way that greatly softens the emotional impact of the film’s final moments. Additionally, it becomes distractingly apparent Bradley Cooper wanted to give himself as many Oscar-worthy moments as possible in the runtime; smothering the film with close-ups of himself and tearful monologues that are certain to grab the attention of The Academy.
Luckily, none of the film’s flaws are enough to undercut the overall efforts of the collective cast and crew and those in the mood for some soupy melodrama are sure to enjoy this retelling of a classic Hollywood fairytale.… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021
This film contains an age-old story, plot-wise and so could be regarded as a bit cliched but I enjoyed it. Its a little formulaic I suppose but the performances were very good and the music was especially enjoyable, both in terms of energeticThis film contains an age-old story, plot-wise and so could be regarded as a bit cliched but I enjoyed it. Its a little formulaic I suppose but the performances were very good and the music was especially enjoyable, both in terms of energetic live performances and also with numerous scenes showing the two main characters in quieter, low key settings (at home, outside in the dark etc.) where they sing to each other, so it's certainly still worth seeing. There's some good cinematography and I liked that it has perhaps a more modern feel to it, with the drag club setting and one or two plot points being representative of modern times. Its a fairly engrossing watch and so I would recommend it, yes.… Expand
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7
kkx69Sep 5, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Актерская игра не очень, радует только музыка.… Expand
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7
FilmanwaltDec 17, 2020
Shallow - A Masterpiece Is Born.

I haven't seen any of the earlier films, so I started refreshing with the latest version. The film has wonderful moments, but also its weaknesses. Towards the end everything drags on and is not quite asShallow - A Masterpiece Is Born.

I haven't seen any of the earlier films, so I started refreshing with the latest version.

The film has wonderful moments, but also its weaknesses. Towards the end everything drags on and is not quite as magical as it was at the beginning.

Actually it is really very high level, especially from Bradley Cooper, who (understandably) already puts Lady Gaga in her place, even if Lady Gaga's acting is really good.

From a vocal point of view, logically the reverse case. I also have to say that I never really followed Lady Gaga with interest, but you just have to bow to her voice, there is a lot of heart and love for music behind all the pop and all the extravagance.

The film didn't become a masterpiece, but Lady Gaga's song Shallow ... really nice. I can only recommend the Star Wars parody "A Star Wars Is Born".

Overall, a piece of film worth seeing.… Expand
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7
AgentLviJul 7, 2023
Decent movie. The story is so --so, scoring is great, visual is decent, and the voice is also great
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6
LamontRaymondOct 5, 2018
It's a tale of two movies - the first half is spectacular and spine-tingling. But as soon as she finds her success, it gets torpedoed. I thought she'd turn into an Amy Winehouse kind of singer, but her eventual path is highly disappointing.It's a tale of two movies - the first half is spectacular and spine-tingling. But as soon as she finds her success, it gets torpedoed. I thought she'd turn into an Amy Winehouse kind of singer, but her eventual path is highly disappointing. Even Cooper's directing choices take a few poor turns in the latter half. It's worth seeing, but nowhere near what the critics are saying it is.… Expand
13 of 31 users found this helpful1318
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6
mnandaJan 12, 2019
Movie that is less than the sum of its parts and it's ultimately crippled by an unconvincing romance anchored by a sadly underwritten female lead. It's a testament to Lady Gaga's vitality and charisma that she makes Ally seem like a realMovie that is less than the sum of its parts and it's ultimately crippled by an unconvincing romance anchored by a sadly underwritten female lead. It's a testament to Lady Gaga's vitality and charisma that she makes Ally seem like a real person when, as written the character has motivations and desires which shift whatever way is most narratively convenient, but with zero logic or consistency. First she's a ballsy performer at a drag club, fiercer than any Queen. Then she's a mousey never-was who doesn't believe in herself. She seems unaffected by Jackson's fame and taken with the man... But then belts an original tune in a parking lot. She's a passionate, authentic singer/songwriter who can only connect with her material when she's also playing the music herself... But then she's doing slick, choreography to a bland pop hit. The biggest mystery of all is why she's with Jackson in the first place. They don't have much chemistry beyond both being very good-looking. Clearly he can help her career, but there's no hint that she might be mercenary, so why is she with him? Especially after she instantly pegs him as a drunk. I could go on, but am going to bail... just like I thought of walking out of the movie every 10 minutes or so after the first hour. That said, the final song did make me cry–a real sign of Lady Gaga's talent as a performer, and a sign of a good song.… Expand
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6
TyranianDec 4, 2019
Pretty good musical-tragedy with decent performances and songs though the story and script are nothing special.
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6
GreatMartinOct 5, 2018
The first 3 productions of “A Star Is Born” revolved around the female star while the 2018 production is more about the male star which, to a certain degree makes it a vanity project since Bradley Cooper stars, coproduced, was one of theThe first 3 productions of “A Star Is Born” revolved around the female star while the 2018 production is more about the male star which, to a certain degree makes it a vanity project since Bradley Cooper stars, coproduced, was one of the three who wrote the screenplay, also wrote a couple of the songs and directed the film. His makeup suntan and/or sunburn distracts in many scenes as he is the only one with that look. The camera is on him in many major scenes, many with Lady Gaga, taking away from other performers.

Cooper has made many changes with the most erroneous being the classic last line of the three other productions while the most interesting changes are the addition of a brother and a somewhat sleazy acting manager who takes over the star on the rise and turns her into something she isn’t.

On the other hand Cooper gives a strong performance and gives Lady Gaga a sensational movie debut. In the opening scenes we watch as Cooper gets to meet Lady Gaga as she does a rousing, sexy version of “La Vie En Rose” though not as strong as the meeting in the second movie version when James Mason meets Judy Garland in an afterhour’s jazz bar singing “The Man That Got Away” that defines her character. A definite contrast in the latter with Lady Gaga’s scene taking place in a drag bar!

We meet Lady Gaga’s father played by a subdued Andrew Dice Clay, her best friend played by Anthony Ramos, Sam Elliot as Cooper’s older brother and David Chappelle as his friend of many years all giving substantial performances.

Director Cooper handles the love story between him and Lady Gaga with help from the natural chemistry between them. He, also, delves into the masks that entertainers put forth when they become famous losing the real selves that made them famous and how it affects them.

The three remakes all have music that defines the singers and the eras in which the movies take place. In this version Lady Gaga, Lukas Nelson and Bradley Cooper have written most of the original songs either together or coupled and even solo. Of the 17 songs there are 5 duets by Lady Gaga, 3 solos by Cooper and 8 by Lady Gaga. Though many of the songs are already on their ways to be being hits I left the theatre not remembering one except the last and that is because of Lady Gaga’s performance.

As a novice director Cooper’s version runs a bit long at 2 hours and 15 minutes but overall his debut of this Hollywood often told story is quite good.

Having seen all 4 versions of “A Star Is Born” in my opinion the 1954 version, starring Judy Garland, in the uncut version is the best while this 2018 version has nothing to be ashamed of in its approach.… Expand
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6
katezoeOct 9, 2018
Was not as impressed as the critics or users. Lady Gaga does become a film "star" and her singing is amazing! Movie is episodic and does not provide a seamless story of his downfall and her rise. It seemed like stitched music videos with someWas not as impressed as the critics or users. Lady Gaga does become a film "star" and her singing is amazing! Movie is episodic and does not provide a seamless story of his downfall and her rise. It seemed like stitched music videos with some acting in between the videos. This version is better than Streisand's but not as good as Garland's.… Expand
8 of 18 users found this helpful810
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6
entitetNov 28, 2018
Even if i don't agree with the high score some movies get, i usually do understand why. In this case, i don't. It's a pretty empty story with everything that's been done better many times before. Beside the song "Shallow" the music is notEven if i don't agree with the high score some movies get, i usually do understand why. In this case, i don't. It's a pretty empty story with everything that's been done better many times before. Beside the song "Shallow" the music is not even B-side worthy. But great performances by Gaga, Sam Elliot, Andrew Dice Clay and Bradley Cooper - altho Coopers character is far too unemotional and unlikeable.… Expand
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6
eagleeyevikingMar 1, 2019
Even at 2 and a quarter hours, the stars' rise and downfall feels rushed and unearned. However, their acting is powerful, the music is exemplary, and there is genuine chemistry between the stars, which goes some way in redeeming the film.
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6
gxm143Nov 16, 2018
Perhaps in part due to inflated expectations going in, I was very disappointed in this film. I found it flat, maudlin, boring in parts. The ending in this iteration of the story came across as unrealistic and untrue to the character. I didn'tPerhaps in part due to inflated expectations going in, I was very disappointed in this film. I found it flat, maudlin, boring in parts. The ending in this iteration of the story came across as unrealistic and untrue to the character. I didn't find Lady Gaga's performance at all compelling. The music wasn't anything special; certainly no song will end up being memorable, imo. There have been less worthy best picture winners, but this does not deserve Oscar glory. Hopefully the history of previous A Star is Borns fading at the finish line will repeat.… Expand
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6
nokyam1Dec 7, 2018
A Star is Born” is supposed to be a great, tragic romance, a Hollywood opera. I didn’t believe them as a couple, didn’t fear for their future together and didn’t mourn the laughably abrupt climax that Cooper, finally remembering the movie heA Star is Born” is supposed to be a great, tragic romance, a Hollywood opera. I didn’t believe them as a couple, didn’t fear for their future together and didn’t mourn the laughably abrupt climax that Cooper, finally remembering the movie he was remaking, forced into the finale.… Expand
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6
arrivistJun 15, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This film gave me an uneasy feeling. Occultist and confidant of Marina Abramovic, Lady Gaga, with her surgically modified face, and Bradley Cooper; friends of Anderson Vanderbilt Cooper (look up Gloria Vanderbilt), with his angry glare undoubtedly have chemistry, as their involvement has since broken up both their private relationships. This is the 3rd time A Star is Born has been remade, it starts strong and has some powerful moments, but it is badly edited and at times forced. The ending is as bleak as the reality of Hollywood.… Expand
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6
JLuis_001Oct 6, 2018
I will not talk about the other films, regardless of whether this is the third remake of the same story.

But I will talk about what I saw and what I really think this film is and first of all I must mention that the hype in my opinion wasI will not talk about the other films, regardless of whether this is the third remake of the same story.

But I will talk about what I saw and what I really think this film is and first of all I must mention that the hype in my opinion was excessive.

Bradley Cooper did good in his debut behind the scenes, but I don't think it's the wonder a lot of critics are saying it is. Regrettably, I think this film will actually get some nominations for the Academy Award and in my opinion it doesn't deserve them.

This remake is as basic as it is predictable and no matter that we are in a story updated to our times all its elements feel too predictable. Regardless of whether you've seen the remakes or not, if you've seen romantic films in your life you know where the story is going and that takes away much of its charm.

Cooper gives a sustained rhythm to the first hour. The music is pretty good, the concerts scenes are vibrant, everything unfolds in a pleasant, entertaining and interesting way but there comes a point where the rhythm begins to fall drastically and Cooper loses control of the story because when the drama and the emotional break arrives, he only stacks one event after another in order to provoke an emotional reaction from the viewers in order to prepare them for the final and huge dramatic point of the story.

Yes, there's quality, that I will not deny it, Cooper delivers a sincere performance although in points it's kinda cliche. Lady Gaga does the same because she starts well but when the moment comes she only becomes a more fictional version of her real life stage persona. No surprise on that side.

Bradley Cooper ends up offering a solid debut as a director but one too predictable and safe. It doesn't take any risk and everything walks from point A to point B by a very straight path and although functional, it doesn't offer anything new or refreshing.… Expand
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6
SteveinAZOct 8, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have to admit that I found this film disappointing. I LOVED the performance by Bradley Cooper. I thought this was definitely HIS film. Gaga was just OK for me. I didn't feel the chemistry between the two. I was confused by the tinnitus side story. It didn't seem to go anywhere. I think my biggest disappointment was the music. Nothing memorable at all, which was surprising. For an overly long film (I think it could have been at least 15 minutes shorter), it seemed to leave questions unanswered. All in all, it was OK, but not an award winner to me.… Expand
4 of 11 users found this helpful47
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6
auburnnOct 7, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Some people say this romance can happen every time everywhere, but this it not true. The director blurs the time frame because he simply can't frame this story in any era. That is to say, the plot simply doesn't make sense - this story can happen to no rock star regardless of sex. I began to feel confused once Jackson makes Ally his wife - like you are a f**king rock star, why lose your freedom by marrying a girl you just know for weeks? This marriage compromises these two singers' personality and individuality, making them anything but rock stars. For a male rock singer who looks good enough, he can almost get laid with every girl he wants. Besides, the fans of a male rock star want to see him behave like a rock star - like the bad boys, "young, dope & proud" in a Lana Del Rey song. Sharing a stage with a random girl out of nowhere, are you kidding me? The same principle happens to a female singer too - if you really wanna gain a following then you don't want to rise to fame as someone's "wife." Take a look at the established female singers: some of them can write songs like a pro, some of them have a really beautiful voice, others revolutionize the fashion industry... A female singer either attracts female fans with her resonating strong personality or male fans as a "sex symbol." No wonder I never heard a new female singer in this industry as a "wife" of a successful male singer - this works for neither of them. It is not surprising that the original 1937 film happens in the Hollywood; the Hollywood and music industry mean totally differently for women. I have been a fan of Lady Gaga since I was 12, but sorry I can't like this movie. Ironically, no one knows what I'm trying to say here better than Lady Gaga herself: she rose to fame with no help from a male partner. She released her debut single, "Just Dance," in April 2008, which finally became a Billboard No. 1 in January 2009 thanks to her sparing-no-effort self promotion. In retrospect, she, without a male's help, was a talented new artist understood by none.… Expand
7 of 18 users found this helpful711
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6
Slovenly_MuseFeb 9, 2019
Competently directed, with superb acting and many stirring emotional moments, this film can't quite surpass its sense of being a vanity project for Bradley Cooper. It is much more tightly focused on Jack than Ally, to the point of nearlyCompetently directed, with superb acting and many stirring emotional moments, this film can't quite surpass its sense of being a vanity project for Bradley Cooper. It is much more tightly focused on Jack than Ally, to the point of nearly abandoning exploration of Ally's complicated feelings about her own rising stardom midway, and ceding all points it almost makes about sexism and fame to the music industry, in order to get on with Jack's story. Unevenly paced, and with some dangling threads to pick up, the film was enjoyable, but ultimately lacked the courage to take its breakout song's promised dive into the deep end.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
movieducationOct 24, 2018
A STAR IS BORN bursts beautifully at the first half - granting simplicity, intimacy and more unstaged dynamics and then it unbounds and fades when it sings different notes : Jack's addiction, Ally's compromise and stardom. Cooper copes, GagaA STAR IS BORN bursts beautifully at the first half - granting simplicity, intimacy and more unstaged dynamics and then it unbounds and fades when it sings different notes : Jack's addiction, Ally's compromise and stardom. Cooper copes, Gaga isn't far from the shallow.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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6
laltunaOct 30, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The first half of the movie was so realistic about the music sector and being a celebrity. Unfortunately the ending was so overdone and far-fetched which ruined the whole movie. The idea of watching Ally's change kept the movie realistic. In my opinion, the story should've kept the focus on being a celebrity, not Jackson's childhood problems or his drug addiction.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
All_ButTrU4Aug 23, 2022
This is a great example of what to do when making a remake. It's still original and stands on it's own but rings true to what made it's previous iterations work so well. I didn't know Bradley Cooper could sing at all but this was a lovelyThis is a great example of what to do when making a remake. It's still original and stands on it's own but rings true to what made it's previous iterations work so well. I didn't know Bradley Cooper could sing at all but this was a lovely surprise. The music steals the show and I might say is more well received than the movie. Gaga is exceptional in her role and performance. This movie doesn't blow me away though but it's entertaining throughout which is really what it's all about… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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6
TommyTimberlakeJan 21, 2019
This movie makes me angry. It makes me angry that people enjoy this movie, and think that it has a touching story. The characters are selfish and shallow. And the fact that people think the ending is touching or sad is infuriating. Lady GagaThis movie makes me angry. It makes me angry that people enjoy this movie, and think that it has a touching story. The characters are selfish and shallow. And the fact that people think the ending is touching or sad is infuriating. Lady Gaga portrays a lovable character that remains insanely loyal to Bradley Cooper's. The puzzling thing is that throughout the film Bradley Cooper does nothing but bring her down. He does absolutely nothing redeemable the entire film. Sometimes films are about rehabilitating an old, washed-up soul. This movie wants to be that, but in the end Cooper decides to betray Gaga, the most supportive person in his life, and hold her back even more by heaping unnecessary grief onto her already stressful life. It isn't romantic or tragic, it is selfish. It solves none of the problems in either of their lives, and he only did it because he was a little bit sad. What a great message.

Despite the good performances in here by Gaga and Sam Elliot (Cooper is very one-note), and some good direction, the characters are atrocious. Don't believe the hype.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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5
dc127Apr 5, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't get this movie. It had overwhelming critical praise. My wife and I both really like Bradley Cooper and had no expectation for Lady Gaga. We requested the movie from our local library (go libraries!) and watched it at home. We found it hard to be engaged. I thought that Bradley Cooper gave a very convincing performance and Lady Gaga was fine. We both were engaged for the first third of the move and then . . . just stopped caring. We turned the movie off and didn't finish it for a week. We were also very annoyed by the ending. Sure he was an addict, but he cared about her and was trying to get his life together. Killing himself didn't make sense. There were a hundred other ways he could have removed himself from her life without hanging himself in the garage.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
blahhhhNov 10, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. He kills himself at the end. What the --- who wants to see that???

The start is ok. He's an alcoholic star, finds a talent girl, falls in love, makes her a star. It's just the ending I hated, where he can't get past him demons and commits suicide.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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5
yosemiteOct 25, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Unfortunately I agree with Roger Moore and gave it a 50. Love Cooper as an actor and Gaga as a singer but didn't buy the movie relationship. If he sang and wrote a few songs, impressive. Gaga is a terrific singer but unless she takes the Liza Minelli route, not a good actress. Overall, good concert scenes, terrific sound track and weak love story.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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5
IamTrinaNov 9, 2018
Meh. The acting was good, more-so on Bradley Cooper's part, but Lady Gaga was okay too--and I enjoyed seeing what Lady Gaga really looks like, but honestly the plot was not very interesting. You shouldn't believe the ones who rate it a "0"Meh. The acting was good, more-so on Bradley Cooper's part, but Lady Gaga was okay too--and I enjoyed seeing what Lady Gaga really looks like, but honestly the plot was not very interesting. You shouldn't believe the ones who rate it a "0" because they have a beef with Lady Gaga, and you shouldn't believe the ones who say it is a "10" ...come on! That leaves no room for the big hit awesome movies. An average rating of 5 is what this movie deserves.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
DrBlahBlahNov 13, 2018
Easily the most overrated film of the year, this remake of a remake of a remake is a paint by numbers rags-to-riches melodrama with only the occasional flicker of compelling drama or believability.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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5
imanzbrjdJan 27, 2019
Considering Cooper's first directing exprience, it was fine but in overall, the movie was just a simple repeatitive cliche. The script was lazy written. I don't understand all these hypes and positive reviews. It was Bradley Cooper and songsConsidering Cooper's first directing exprience, it was fine but in overall, the movie was just a simple repeatitive cliche. The script was lazy written. I don't understand all these hypes and positive reviews. It was Bradley Cooper and songs that kept me going till the end of the movie. I think it might be Cooper's best acting ever. On the other side, Lady Gaga was horrible. I mean it was totally fake. Her acting was bothering the sh*t out of me. If you guys wanna see a real "A Star is Born" movie, go watch Walk the Line starring Joaquin Phoenix. The crazy life of the great Johnny Cash.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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5
nntrancerOct 10, 2018
The first act was well done with great dialogue and direction. Then it bogged down, became predictable, boring and in the end, way too long. The music was mostly forgettable. One of the odd scenes was his band cranking up with wailingThe first act was well done with great dialogue and direction. Then it bogged down, became predictable, boring and in the end, way too long. The music was mostly forgettable. One of the odd scenes was his band cranking up with wailing electric guitars and you thought it was going to take off with some hard rock song. Then Cooper started singing a ballad. And Gaga didn't impress with her acting or her singing. This movie was way overrated.… Expand
8 of 18 users found this helpful810
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5
garmonboziaNov 25, 2018
This movie was a mixed bag for me. It's full of cliches and by the book scenarios. Rushed beginning, naively developed and unconvincing plot (romantic comedies manner), forced and manipulative emotions and a lot of really unrealistic cringyThis movie was a mixed bag for me. It's full of cliches and by the book scenarios. Rushed beginning, naively developed and unconvincing plot (romantic comedies manner), forced and manipulative emotions and a lot of really unrealistic cringy moments (the whole grammy awards situation). The real star of the movie isn't Lady Gaga. Her character seems underdeveloped and her acting is very superficial. It really shows that she is at the beginning of her journey into acting - and I'm not convinced that she has what it takes to be an actor. After watching the film I have no idea who her character was. The girl was all over the place. The view on her career and music business was presented in such a shallow manner and again felt very unrealistic. The whole "we are going to change you and make you a star" felt like a short naive story from Britney Spears videos, and not like a plot from "wanna be treated serious" drama. What's funny is that the character's "fake for the business persona" is reminiscent of that of Lady Gaga. Only naive people would believe that her pop-star persona isn't created by the team of people and precisely designed for mass audience. So it's a bit funny to watch Lady Gaga playing a girl who had compromised her identity for a huge career in music business, when she's actually done that in real live. Of course she would deny that and said that her Lady Gaga persona is very personal, real and true - but it's not exactly the case. The real star here is Bradley Cooper. The problem is that his character is also a walking and breathing cliche. At least he was more convincing than Gaga. This movie falls into "Dirty dancing", "The bodyguard" (hit soundtracks/diva in the lead) etc. category. A B-movie loved by lots of people. I'm OK with that. It has a world-wide famous singer in the cast, and a directional debut of Bradley Cooper - of course critics will look somewhat favorably on it. But seriously the whole hype and oscar buzz is just so blown out of proportion of what this movie really is and what has managed to achieve. If this movie deserves to get any oscar recognition it should be for supporting role for Sam Elliot (he was the real real star and emotional blast in his tiny scenes) and for music. I would nominate the song which Gaga and Cooper sing together for the first time on stage. The last solo song was really disappointing and weak. It didn't have strong enough emotional struck despite the Gaga's impressive vocal abilities.
In conclusion. It's an OK movie. Too shallow, naive and emotionally manipulative to consider it - great drama. It's like Gaga's character from the movie, designed to appeal to the masses.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
fiszmanmDec 25, 2018
Too much cliche drama. This is a movie to satisfy Holywood. It has oscar written over it.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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4
ClariseSamuelsFeb 17, 2019
A Star Is Born never loses its appeal as the ultimate American rags-to-riches success story—with a love story to boot. First made in 1937 with actors Janet Gaynor and Fredric March, the film was remade in 1954 with Judy Garland and JamesA Star Is Born never loses its appeal as the ultimate American rags-to-riches success story—with a love story to boot. First made in 1937 with actors Janet Gaynor and Fredric March, the film was remade in 1954 with Judy Garland and James Mason, then again in 1976 with Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson, and now we have the twenty-first century version with Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. The film’s hype and award-season nomination sweep is partly due to the impressive soundtrack of heartfelt songs sung with the powerful mezzo-soprano voice of Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, known popularly to most of us as Lady Gaga, who also co-wrote many of the songs.

To begin with, there are many surprises in this film: 1) The moving and emotionally fervent songs were sung live on the set by Gaga and Cooper; 2) it appears that Bradley Cooper could have been a rock star if he had not succeeded as an actor; and 3) Stefani Germanotta is a natural beauty who goes to great lengths to make herself look as bizarre as possible with her platinum hair and overly dramatic make-up in her persona as Lady Gaga. Strangely enough, Gaga said in an interview that she felt ugly looking like her real self in the role of Ally. There is also an autobiographical footnote in the film when Ally confesses that producers always told her they like the way she sounds but not the way she looks, which might explain Gaga’s decision in real life to make herself look as outrageous as possible. In the film, Ally says that producers complained about her nose, and in interviews Gaga admitted that this tidbit was from her real experience. (Ironically, Gaga’s patrician nose is quite elegant and reminiscent of ancient Roman aristocracy—there’s nothing wrong with her nose.)

The film begins strongly with a meeting of two musical minds—Ally lives at home with her dad, works as a waitress, and only gets to sing at night at a drag club where they tolerate that she is a real female because they like her. Cooper plays a famous country rock star, Jackson Maine, who is so famous that he could stumble drunkenly into any tiny bar in any city and instantly be recognized by every single person sitting there, which puts him in approximately the same league as Mick Jagger or Elton John. Cooper’s character is strikingly authentic as a musician and rock star, but Cooper’s dramatic skills are a bit rough and unpolished in this role, as are those of Lady Gaga. Gaga is playing her real self stripped naked, so to speak. She is unable to completely transcend her natural reticence about her real self to be convincing in the role of Ally. And Jackson Maine is supposed to be drunken, difficult, and debauched, with a perpetual chip on his shoulder; yet, he turns into a tender, docile lamb every time he looks lovingly at Ally. The viewer might wonder whether this is Jackson Maine, Ally’s lover, or Bradley Cooper, Lady Gaga fan. The f-word dominates the script so unremittingly that at times it sounds like they are speaking an unfamiliar and deviant dialect of the English language.

The across-the-board award nominations for this film are a true testament to the impressively large fandom of Lady Gaga, making this film part of the popular culture that the Academy seeks to include in its nominations.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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4
red_arrayNov 11, 2018
The acting was good, but the ending was not earned. This movie (all four of them really) is basically just a 2 hour ploy to get women in the audience to cry.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
AndremaxDec 3, 2019
Star is born is visually attractive, emotional at certain point but for some reason boring.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
ric1978Oct 5, 2018
What a over hyped film ..i went in the cinema with high hopes and high expectations and i was totally bored throughout the movie it was like a lady gaga concert with backstage scenes if you're a lady gaga fan you will most likely love it -What a over hyped film ..i went in the cinema with high hopes and high expectations and i was totally bored throughout the movie it was like a lady gaga concert with backstage scenes if you're a lady gaga fan you will most likely love it - the most overhyped movie of all time ..hugely disappointed… Expand
17 of 46 users found this helpful1729
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4
AxeTOct 7, 2018
Absurdly over-rated and ridiculously praised as a must by the jackass critics herd, media dunces, and the react as they're told audience now, it drags from beginning to end in a cliché laden remake story with the major debut by Gaga comingAbsurdly over-rated and ridiculously praised as a must by the jackass critics herd, media dunces, and the react as they're told audience now, it drags from beginning to end in a cliché laden remake story with the major debut by Gaga coming off like acting class as you watch her trying to act (with good acting you don't notice). Bradley is a very good actor, but he plays a contrived character with the put on voice only distracting. The singing and music are great, but it doesn't make a movie. The whole thing despite decent competent filmmaking rings false, going through the motions only. Staged.

Consider a movie with similar subject, "Crazy Heart", a far superior experience that got Jeff Bridges his Oscar (deservedly) but had no such hype because it was a small release without the benefit of huge pop diva presence. That one got to you, more subtly maybe but it had a soul. Bridges was the character. This is a watch check flick.… Expand
13 of 27 users found this helpful1314
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4
GleefulnessOct 7, 2018
Definitely overrated, with a singer who can't act and an actor who can't sing. It really needed some hummable songs and decent singers who had genuine star quality. Gaga oversinging like she was in a TV talent show didn't count. Cooper'sDefinitely overrated, with a singer who can't act and an actor who can't sing. It really needed some hummable songs and decent singers who had genuine star quality. Gaga oversinging like she was in a TV talent show didn't count. Cooper's numbers were drowned out by electric guitar riffs, covering up the thin lyrics and poor melodies. Unlike 'The Man Who Got Away', it's hard to imagine that songs like the aptly-named 'Shallow' will be remembered in 60 years' time. Other reviewers have pointed out the lack of chemistry between the leads and how the story fizzles out, making the title seem somewhat ironic. Cooper was unconvincing as an alcoholic, and Gaga was ok as the ingenue but didn't convince as a star, even though she is one in real life. The movie also seemed to mock her pop persona, as against the supposed authenticity of dreadful country songs or Adele-like ballads. Cheesy plot and terrible acting in fact reminded me more of Purple Rain, though at least that movie had some half-decent songs and musical performances.… Expand
11 of 26 users found this helpful1115
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4
Davidsco27Oct 19, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. #1. there was NO chemistry between the two characters. NONE. I've seen more chemistry in 10th Grade, and I got a D. The movie was a series of 2 or 3 minutes scenes haphazardly cut together. There was no continuity, no buildup, no story building. It seemed like they took all the First Takes and just pieced them together. The acting was mostly flat. I felt nothing for the characters. I didn't buy his drunk. There was no reason he ended up at her club in the beginning, and no reason he was attracted to her, or her to him. Nothing. No build up, no story, just a bunch of dialogue pieced together. The songs were forgettable, and most just silly cliche'd crap. His relationship with his brother had no real emotion. I don't know WHAT Dave Chapelle was doing there, and the scene between them on the lawn was useless. I don't know WHAT the hell Dice was doing there, except maybe he's buddies with Cooper, and Cooper wanted to give him a part. The Rehab scene was useless. I felt nothing at the end when she sang her song, and that was HUGE in the Streisand one. The love scenes between them, I think even they didn't feel them, and that's why they were cut so short. I thought the idea of turning Gaga's character into Gaga was a poor choice. She had said earlier, when she was advised to dye her hair platinum, that she wouldn't do that, it wasn't true to her. Then she colors her hair. Why? So Gaga fans would be happy? I felt NOTHING of her rise and his fall. It was just flat. He was the same throughout the movie, and so was she, only she colored and styled her hair. But the thing that REALLY pissed me off, was his suicide at the end. Forgetting the fact that we didn't feel with him that it was his justifiable end, it RUINED the Streisand film. In the Streisand version, John Norman leaves in his sports car, listening to her music, drunk, and under the influence, and he is seen driving recklessly, and speeding, and then it cuts to after the accident. It is left to the viewers' imagination, Did he kill himself on purpose, or was it an accident caused by his state? In this one, Boom, he hangs himself. Thanks, Brad. Thanks for just killing everything. And lastly, Gaga is NO Streisand. She wants to be, and tried real hard to be, but she is not. She's the American Idol version. I didn't get any authenticity from her songs, or or acting. She wasn't bad, in the acting department, and maybe under a better director, she could've risen to a very good performance. She has a good voice, but she just didn't move me at all. As for Cooper's directing of himself. This was his worst performance, imo. Even in stinker movies, of which he's done a couple, I've always believed him, and liked his performances. Here, I didn't buy a second of it. He needs a good director, and a better editor to guide him.… Expand
1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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4
VAFOct 20, 2018
I am not certain what is up with people's taste these days. How this movie has a higher score than Bad Times at the El Royale is beyond me. This movie is mediocre mediocre mediocre. I suppose Lady Gaga surprises people and she did better thanI am not certain what is up with people's taste these days. How this movie has a higher score than Bad Times at the El Royale is beyond me. This movie is mediocre mediocre mediocre. I suppose Lady Gaga surprises people and she did better than I expected, but that doesn't make this a great movie. It's- okay. The chemistry between the two is great. However the plot is boring, the movie feels and is long as you know where the story is going, and that's it. I am not saying it's terrible, and probably a good starter for Cooper, but- it's just not that engaging, surprising or interesting.… Expand
6 of 12 users found this helpful66
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4
caleb36Nov 5, 2018
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The movie was ruined at the very end when all of the blame is placed by Jackson Maine's brother on Jackson himself, and not on Lady Gaga's agent Rez who led her away from musical integrity into cheap but successful commercialism. Inside Jackson's own house, Rez devastates him with the cruelest comments imaginable, uttered coldly and calculatedly, starting with "we are not friends here." Why was Rez not blamed for the tragic outcome, and why is all the blame put on Jackson? Because Rez realistically represents commercial corruption in the music industry as well as in Hollywood. Bradley Cooper was either unwilling or was told not to confront Hollywood directly. So Rez gets off morally scot-free, and the movie is destroyed in infuriating fashion at its close. This was also a horrible thing to do to potentially suicidal people, putting all of the blame on them. For me, it turned a nine-star movie into a four-star.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
chihJan 22, 2020
I expected this movie hit me differently during the whole watching, but I end up getting disappointed and frustrated, the plot is not interested at all, everything in this movie is just a nutshell of a mediocre Hollywood film. If I was forcedI expected this movie hit me differently during the whole watching, but I end up getting disappointed and frustrated, the plot is not interested at all, everything in this movie is just a nutshell of a mediocre Hollywood film. If I was forced to pick up some parts that really worth saying, I'd say the actor really do what they are paid to do, it's nice to see, gotta commit it really happened sometimes when the plot is actually sucked and the actor is not even there just hang his face around like he is really acting.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
Xeba_1Jan 29, 2019
Aburrida, actuaciones chatas, un sacrificio llegar hasta el final ya que desde el minuto 20 había perdido totalmente el interés.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
swingNov 9, 2018
Disappointing in that it's so predictable and cliche. Yes, the performances are good, but the story is going exactly where you know it's going. There is no suspense at all. Yes, she can sing, and she can too, surprisingly. But, it couldn'tDisappointing in that it's so predictable and cliche. Yes, the performances are good, but the story is going exactly where you know it's going. There is no suspense at all. Yes, she can sing, and she can too, surprisingly. But, it couldn't keep me in my seat until the end.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
zedzdedNov 18, 2018
I wanted to like this movie. I like Bradley Cooper, I like Lady Gaga. I don't like this movie. They're both good actors but Cooper's musical performances are so flat and uninspiring and Gaga is such a talented performer that the whole thingI wanted to like this movie. I like Bradley Cooper, I like Lady Gaga. I don't like this movie. They're both good actors but Cooper's musical performances are so flat and uninspiring and Gaga is such a talented performer that the whole thing doesn't add up. Also cooper's suffering jesus is a bit painful to watch. The poor guy. It just didn't work for me and unless you're a die hard Cooper/Gaga fans, this is all a bit tepid despite good performances, story, secondary actors, direction, art direction, camerawork etc. which are all top notch. I need to review some movies I liked now cause I notice I'm only reviewing overhyped movies that i find crap.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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3
joelgreenbergOct 7, 2018
The movie never avoids embracing cliches and oversimplifying the music, of which there is far too much - and lyrics are apparently unnecessary, since most of them sail by without clarity or discernible purpose.
Lady Gaga is a strong screenThe movie never avoids embracing cliches and oversimplifying the music, of which there is far too much - and lyrics are apparently unnecessary, since most of them sail by without clarity or discernible purpose.
Lady Gaga is a strong screen presence, though the script fails to serve her as it might have - I think she can probably act, but a script written in attitudes and endless repetition would be hard for even the young Streep to breathe life into. Cooper slurs his lines (and lyrics) with the carelessness that this character appears to have taken great pains to build upon as his career flourished - Kris Kristofferson without the credible vocal growl adopted here by Cooper for what I can only imagine is his musician's self-regard. Apart from all this, the movie is very long.… Expand
8 of 22 users found this helpful814
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3
DzimasJan 27, 2019
In this day and age most music and films are written and produced for 13 year old girls. I suppose in a way Star is Born took a sardonic view of Ally's rise as a Beyonce-like starlet replete with back-up dancers doing a song somewhatIn this day and age most music and films are written and produced for 13 year old girls. I suppose in a way Star is Born took a sardonic view of Ally's rise as a Beyonce-like starlet replete with back-up dancers doing a song somewhat reminiscent of Sing Ladies, but the world-weary Jackson let her play out her dream, ultimately escaping into a bottle of Tequila and sucking the worm inside.

However, that was pretty much the only takeaway as far as I am concerned, as this film was loaded with cliches when it could have been tailored for the times. Instead, it feels like a badly dated 1970s redux of the classic film with none of the joie de vivre we would expect from two headliners like Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper.

This is all her movie. It is fun to watch Gaga raw and unplugged in the early scenes of the movie. She has a great voice and is the obvious successor to Barbra Streisand. But, Brad is no Kris Kristofferson, who could both act and sing. Brad does neither very well. He just falls further and further in the hole he has dug for himself one wasted scene after the next.

I would think we are beyond this kind of sentimental tripe but apparently not judging from all the glowing reviews. The industry chews up and spits out these starlets one after the other. No real comment on the system other than to give us the Faustian Rez Gavron who appears to call in Jackson's contract in favor of Ally. Mercifully, Cooper avoids the love triangle that appeared to be coming, but ultimately Ally chooses Rez while hanging onto Jackson like you would an old dog. Too bad because this film could have been so much more.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
Jerome_KirbyOct 26, 2018
A parody on 'The Room', trying too hard to be 'La La Land'. Everything about this movie is terrible, starting from the script and ending with the performances. Those artificial tears pouring from poor Lady Gaga's eyes look as cringeworthy asA parody on 'The Room', trying too hard to be 'La La Land'. Everything about this movie is terrible, starting from the script and ending with the performances. Those artificial tears pouring from poor Lady Gaga's eyes look as cringeworthy as they only can, and that scene with breaking the portraits... Yeah, Tommy Wiseau, you did a great job.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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3
RedBeardoOct 18, 2018
Shockingly self-indulgent and flat for all the praise it’s received. All the air seeps out after the first 15 minutes, and then it’s just two hours of watching the same beats over and over: Jackson promises to stop drinking, Ally belts outShockingly self-indulgent and flat for all the praise it’s received. All the air seeps out after the first 15 minutes, and then it’s just two hours of watching the same beats over and over: Jackson promises to stop drinking, Ally belts out another forgettable song, Jackson falls off the wagon, Ally gets upset, they fight, repeat. Over and over and over. At first Ally has charm and charisma but soon enough turns into a vapid, one-note pop star with ugly day-glo hair. Inexplicably, Jackson mumbles throughout in a deep raspy vocal register but always sings in a tenor’s octave with choirboy diction. Ultimately the problem is Cooper’s love for his own unedited close-ups. He’s flipped the story’s dynamics so that he’s the star here, not the ascending starlet as in previous versions. And he’s simply not as fascinating as Cooper thinks he is. Never expected to find the cringeworthy Streisand version superior, but it is in just about every way. Her narcissism may be equal to Cooper’s, but at least the scenes in that version went somewhere, the dialogue wasn’t as banal and a handful of the tunes were hummable.… Expand
11 of 26 users found this helpful1115
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3
Andypandy7Oct 5, 2018
Cooper's painfully earnest depiction of a (very unlikeable and greasy-haired) addict is far too heavy for this frothy material. As one reviewer said, more 'A Star Goes Out' than 'A Star Is Born'. At least the self-indulgent focus on himCooper's painfully earnest depiction of a (very unlikeable and greasy-haired) addict is far too heavy for this frothy material. As one reviewer said, more 'A Star Goes Out' than 'A Star Is Born'. At least the self-indulgent focus on him spares us much of Gaga's precariously near-wooden acting. If Cooper was insistent on giving it the heavy-handed treatment he should have had the character's addiction stem from the pressures of fame and not from his family background. The resulting premise makes the music industry setting redundant. Subsequently, there is no palpable reason for tension between the leads, which makes for a very lacklustre experience. This might have been saved by a crackle of sexual chemistry but there is none. Cooper looks good without his shirt on but so what? Nobody wants to stare at those two weird faces for two and half hours. Some of the gruff-voiced dialogue is embarrassing (Sam Elliott, anyone?). Following in the unfortunate footsteps of 'Mother!' and 'Hereditary', it's unintentionally funny in parts and boring in others. The songs aren't bad but they're not in the same league as those from the 1976 version. Gaga's performance on the stage is, of course, good but not that good. She screeches out the songs from the beginning and consequently has nowhere to go for the denouement. Let's face it, she has about a quarter of Streisand's talent and none of the charisma. I can see the effort, but mediocre results. Next!… Expand
26 of 77 users found this helpful2651
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3
Mir15Oct 10, 2018
Очередной римейк, честно говоря фильм для домашнего просмотра, для фанатов Гаги и Купера
4 of 16 users found this helpful412
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3
FosterChadJun 18, 2019
It is a tiring narrative. Earlier versions are more attractive, Lady Gaga tries, strives but the scenes that impress are those she makes herself. Being a singer. When it needs drama, it fails. Who holds the bar is his fellow Cooper scene whoIt is a tiring narrative. Earlier versions are more attractive, Lady Gaga tries, strives but the scenes that impress are those she makes herself. Being a singer. When it needs drama, it fails. Who holds the bar is his fellow Cooper scene who impresses so much in singing, acting and directing. But for the avid fans of the former pop singer the movie can be a full plate.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
Srujan7835Dec 25, 2019
I guess this movie's storyline is copied from a Bollywood movie named "aashiqui 2" I'm very dissappointed. :(
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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3
daebu_charSep 19, 2020
An extremely overrated picture with underwhelming plot, emotionally calculated scenes, and characters that are beige. The "3" is for the soundtrack and Lady Gaga's outstanding singing. The rest is trash.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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2
marco34laOct 6, 2018
This version of A Star is Born is soooo over-rated, that it's maddening. Gaga gives a fine performance, but the overall drama falls flat and seems very 2 dimensional. It lacks the excitement, chemistry and STAR PRESENCE thatThis version of A Star is Born is soooo over-rated, that it's maddening. Gaga gives a fine performance, but the overall drama falls flat and seems very 2 dimensional. It lacks the excitement, chemistry and STAR PRESENCE that Streisand-Kristoferson gave in the 70s. Gaga can belt out a raspy song... but 'a voice from heaven' it is not. The other observation is that this is LESS of a story about a star being born than it is a A Star is Dying. Directed by Cooper, he focuses far too much on himself and the story from his POV and never get the sense of Gaga being star on the rise. She starts singing a song and then the film cuts to a scene about Cooper. Also, Gaga doesn't have "it" ... her sheer on-camera presence doesn't like up the screen, perhaps because she's so homely and doesn't have a spark that lights her up? The movie was watchable though. If you're in your teens and 20s and big gaga fans, you'll probably like it... cause you don't know any better.… Expand
14 of 50 users found this helpful1436
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2
Astor_Oct 16, 2018
The film follows a hard-drinking musician (Bradley Cooper) who discovers and falls in love with a young singer (Lady Gaga).

The main reason why I went to watch this is mainly due to the raving good reviews I have come across on this film. IThe film follows a hard-drinking musician (Bradley Cooper) who discovers and falls in love with a young singer (Lady Gaga).

The main reason why I went to watch this is mainly due to the raving good reviews I have come across on this film. I normally steer clear of music central films. And I am excited to see Lady Gaga in action, being somewhat a fan of hers. Pretty much I went into this with relative high expectation.

The pacing of the film is slow. What is worse is that the story itself is a torture to watch through. It is so simplistic that I could predict how the film would end. This is really bad. Halfway through the film, I felt like leaving the theatre.

The only main good thing about this film is that the music are really wonderful and pleasing to listen to. But there are simply not enough of them in this film. It would have been better if the film focuses on making it more like a concert film, with mostly music performance and some light story in between.

I do not recommend watching this.… Expand
6 of 15 users found this helpful69
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1
LittlegizmoOct 23, 2021
its really bad... Gaga cant act and a remake of a remake of a remake should never exist... horrible movie
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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1
Arianator77Oct 6, 2018
As much as you have to love Gaga as a singer, she cannot act. She just cannot. Because of that, the movie is already ruined. You have to admire her for trying, but you can't admire the movie.
17 of 47 users found this helpful1730
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1
Marianne07Oct 24, 2018
When I first heard that Bradley Cooper wrote, directed, and starred in A Star Is Born I couldn’t help it with the eye roll. I naturally assumed the film would be a total vanity piece. But then, it seemed to get universally great reviews –When I first heard that Bradley Cooper wrote, directed, and starred in A Star Is Born I couldn’t help it with the eye roll. I naturally assumed the film would be a total vanity piece. But then, it seemed to get universally great reviews – so I went to see it. But, of COURSE. I was absolutely RIGHT IN THE FIRST PLACE. This film is RUBBISH. Bradley Cooper must have been feeling pissed not to be cast in deep and meaningful roles where he could also show off his ripped abs. Or maybe he was upset that he’d never been cast as a Rockstar before. Whatever. Who the FRIG is Bradley Friggin Cooper that he can get this dross even made, let alone have people around the world say how great it is. What is going ON??!

Cooper has made a point of claiming to have something to say in this film. WRONG. He has absolutely NOTHING to say in this film. And, unfortunately, he says it at length (just like the Reverend at Harry and Meghan’s wedding).

In the scene where he wanders into the garage to hang himself, I thought I saw a gun on the table, so I was like Yeah, just shoot yourself instead – which made me laugh out loud. Whoopsy. This is supposed to be a portentous moment where he reverently lays down his cowboy hat before he chokes. What a CROCK!

And I thought he might at least have the grace to leave the ending to Lady Gaga, but NOPE – he sticks himself right in there again! Again!

Okay,maybe, just MAYBE, Ben Affleck has enough clout to get his film made, and even have it named best picture. But BRADLEY COOPER? Who the FRIG is HE? Can someone please explain the inner workings of Hollywood to me again because I’ve clearly LOST THE PLOT.

I even took tissues to this thing – for NOTHING!!!
I want my MONEY BACK, PLUS the TWO HOURS I wasted on this self-indulgent drivel.

Oh – PS though. Gaga could probably be a good actor given a decent script and a proper director.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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1
frannorthstarJan 29, 2019
Substance Abuse is NOT a Disease!!
…how could a disease be abusive yet it’s been coined that for years coercing the public to a better expectancy of what is simply self-indulgent just as the acting and script for this FOURTH remake trash onlySubstance Abuse is NOT a Disease!!
…how could a disease be abusive yet it’s been coined that for years coercing the public to a better expectancy of what is simply self-indulgent just as the acting and script for this FOURTH remake trash only deserving one star here for Elliott’s work though his ‘The Hero’ was by far much better yet receive what exactly apart from stoners heaven…… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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0
VincentOct 6, 2018
Gaga can't act and is an artistic fraud. This movie is over hyped trash. Hopefully it wins zero awards (this movie exists as a vehicle for Lady Gaga to get oscars).
12 of 45 users found this helpful1233
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